“Water? Which Aedes aegypti Pupa Needs It!”

Mosquito pupae are conventionally believed to require water for survival and subsequent emergence into adult mosquitoes. This study assessed emergence of Ae. aegypti mosquitoes from four substrates: (1) water; (2) moist filter paper; (3) moist filter paper with a wet cotton pad below it; and (4) double-meshed wire surface with a wet tissue below it. High levels of emergence (at least 90%) were obtained for all four substrates. These mosquitoes displayed comparable fitness levels as represented by their flight ability and mating success. The median survival curve of male mosquitoes showed no significant differences, but significant differences were observed between groups of female mosquitoes that emerged from different substrates. The results will be helpful for programmes that intend to improve the logistical handling of mosquitoes for field releases.